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Getting the Most Out of Text Messaging with REDCap

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Text messaging is one of the most effective ways to reach research participants. SMS surveys see 40–50% response rates compared to 15–25% for email, and 95% of text messages are opened within three minutes. Here's how to make the most of text messaging in your REDCap projects.

What Can You Do with Text Messaging in REDCap?

  • Survey delivery via SMS — Send REDCap survey links directly to participants' phones
  • Automated appointment reminders — Reduce no-shows with scheduled text reminders
  • Two-way text conversations — Communicate with participants in real time
  • Alerts and notifications — Trigger text messages based on REDCap events or data entries
  • ePRO and eDiaries — Collect patient-reported outcomes via text

Best Practices

  • Keep messages short. SMS has a 160-character limit per segment. Test your messages to make sure survey links don't get broken across segments on some devices.
  • Be mindful of PHI. SMS is not considered a secure form of communication. Avoid including personally identifiable information (PII) or protected health information (PHI) in message text. Your IRB information sheet and/or consent should address SMS communication.
  • Time your messages wisely. Know your participants and when they're most likely to respond to survey invitations.
  • Use a dedicated number. A consistent phone number across your projects helps participants recognize and trust your messages.

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